Meet Our Staff
Autumn Care’s Person-Centered approach means we work to recruit the area’s best talent. Autumn Care employees have a heart to serve older adults and are dedicated to our core values of excellence, integrity, respect and compassion.
PETER FALK
Peter Falk is the Founder and President of Autumn Care and brings extensive experience in senior care, healthcare administration, and community development. He holds a degree in Healthcare Administration and is a Licensed Nursing Home Administrator, Certified Nursing Assistant, and Licensed Building Contractor. Throughout his career, Peter has worked with leading rehabilitation and assisted living organizations across the country, gaining deep knowledge in providing high-quality care for seniors. His leadership and hands-on involvement help ensure that every Autumn Care community delivers exceptional services, compassionate care, and a welcoming environment for residents and their families.
With his background as a builder and healthcare professional, Peter enjoys finding innovative ways to create senior living communities that allow older adults to remain close to the neighborhoods and people they cherish.
MARI FALK
Mari Falk is the Chief Executive Officer of Autumn Care and brings extensive experience in accounting, auditing, and business leadership. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and an MBA in International Economics and began her career with Life Care Centers of America before advancing into public accounting with Deloitte, KPMG, and Crowe, where she served as a Senior Manager. Mari later worked as an Audit Manager for Rockwell International, leading teams conducting financial and operational audits across domestic and international locations. In 2008, she co-founded Autumn Care Management and opened the first Autumn Care Assisted Living community in Karns, Tennessee.
Mari is deeply committed to designing elegant, thoughtfully curated communities that appeal to the lifestyle and expectations of today’s discerning seniors.
CHRIS FALK
Chris Falk oversees the Finance, Accounting, and Payroll departments at Autumn Care, bringing nearly a decade of leadership within the organization. A Knoxville native and Webb School of Knoxville alumnus, Chris earned his degree from the Daniels College of Business at the University of Denver with a minor in History. Since joining Autumn Care in 2015, he has played an important role in supporting the company’s financial operations and long-term organizational growth. Chris is committed to strong financial stewardship that helps ensure the continued success and stability of the communities Autumn Care serves.
Outside of work, Chris enjoys traveling, spending time with his dog Tess, and creating music as an accomplished musician.
HOLLY SMARR
Holly Smarr is an experienced senior living leader with more than 15 years of experience in assisted living and memory care. As a Certified Dementia Practitioner, she has served in executive leadership roles overseeing community operations, team development, and resident-centered programming. Holly is passionate about creating supportive environments where residents feel valued, families feel confident in the care they receive, and staff are empowered to provide exceptional service. Her leadership focuses on building strong teams and fostering vibrant communities where seniors can thrive.
Holly enjoys being active in the Knoxville community and spending time with family.
Jennifer Ratcliff
Jennifer Ratcliff brings nearly two decades of experience in healthcare, hospice, and senior services. She has held leadership roles in business development, operations, and community outreach, building strong partnerships with healthcare providers and supporting families as they navigate senior care decisions. As a Certified Dementia Practitioner, Jennifer is committed to expanding access to compassionate, high-quality care for older adults. Her work focuses on strengthening community connections and helping families feel supported throughout their senior living journey.
Jennifer is also the founder of a nonprofit that helps seriously ill individuals find safe placements for their beloved pets.
Tabatha Smith
Tabatha is a Licensed Practical Nurse and Knoxville native with more than a decade of experience in senior care and healthcare services. Since beginning her nursing career in 2012, she has gained experience in long-term care, assisted living, home health, and specialty medical offices. Tabatha joined Autumn Care in 2015 as Assistant Director of Nursing, where she played an active leadership role and supported initiatives such as serving as team captain for the Alzheimer’s Association Walk. She is passionate about delivering compassionate, high-quality care and is dedicated to supporting residents, families, and team members in creating a positive community environment.
Outside of work, Tabatha enjoys serving her community, spending time outdoors, and being with her family, including her husband, children, and dogs.
Larry Stafford
Larry Stafford brings more than a decade of experience in fire safety, regulatory compliance, and healthcare facility operations across East Tennessee. As a Certified Fire Inspector for the State of Tennessee, he previously served as a Deputy State Fire Marshal and Director of Maintenance in a nursing home setting. Larry is dedicated to maintaining the highest life safety standards to ensure a secure environment for residents, staff, and visitors. His background in public service reflects a strong commitment to protecting those in the communities he serves.
Outside of work, Larry enjoys spending time with family and supporting the University of Tennessee Volunteers.
Alicia Parks
Alicia Parks brings more than a decade of experience in food service management within healthcare and community dining environments. As Food Service Director, she oversees dietary operations, staff leadership, menu planning, and regulatory compliance to ensure residents receive nutritious, high-quality meals each day. Alicia works closely with healthcare teams to support residents’ dietary needs while maintaining efficient kitchen operations and strong service standards. Her leadership focuses on creating enjoyable dining experiences that promote health, comfort, and community for every resident.
Outside of work, Alicia enjoys spending time with family and continuing her studies in business administration.